The Mets are willing to pay some of it Starling Marte‘s contract in a potential trade to increase their chances of a better return, according Will Sammon of De Athletics.
Marte has long been seen as a prospect as he is projected to make $20.75 million during the final season of his contract and the addition of a superstar. Juan Soto, playing in right field virtually every day makes him even more expendable.
The 36-year-old veteran also wouldn’t fit on the roster in a fourth outfielder role, as his deteriorating defense likely leaves him behind versatile glove-first options such as Jose Siri And Tyrone Taylor in the pecking order.
However, if he sticks around, he could potentially serve as the Mets’ designated hitter.
Marte was again slowed by injuries last season, but was relatively productive when healthy, hitting seven home runs, posting a .715 OPS and stealing 16 bases.
